merits and demerits of need theory and interpersonal theor
The selected nursing theories are need theory and interpersonal theory. Need theory focuses on promoting the patient’s independence to hasten their progress at the hospital. Henderson’s need theory also emphasizes the need for nurses to address the patient’s basic human needs and assist him or her in meeting them (Im and Ju Chang, 2012). This theory incites behavioral change because the nurse can act on behalf of the patient when he or she lacks knowledge, physical, and emotional strength as prescribed in therapy (Im and Ju Chang, 2012). The advantage of this theory is that it highlights fourteen components that encompass the basic human needs, and are vital in ensuring wholeness in patient recovery through the attainment of physiological and emotional balance (Pehlivan, 2016). On the contrary, the disadvantage of this theory is that it does not provide further explanation of the principle of dying of how nurses can institute a patient’s peaceful death.
On the other hand, Peplau’s interpersonal theory advocates for a nurse-client relationship during treatment to address the patient’s difficulties. This theory incites behavioral change in stages as part of the interpersonal relationship, through orientation, identification, exploitation, and resolution (Pehlivan, 2016). The patient comes out of the process, fully aware, and capable of dealing with the problem. The advantage of this theory is that it provides a logical and systematic way of addressing nursing situations (Im and Ju Chang, 2012). On the contrary, the disadvantage is that it cannot be applied to a patient who does not have a felt need.
Ethical Issues Under Consideration
The ethical issues to be considered during the integration of the theories include promoting a patient’s privacy and confidentiality and the right to informed consent to treatment. The application of the ethical principles is essential in supporting the nurse-client interaction and ensuring better treatment outcomes (Im and Ju Chang, 2012). Thus, nurses integrating the two discussed theories in practice should ensure strict adherence to the ethical principles.
References
Im, E., & Ju Chang, S. (2012). Current Trends in Nursing Theories. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 44(2), 156-164. doi: 10.1111/j.1547-5069.2012.01440.x
Pehlivan, T. (2016). The Use of Theories in Psychiatric Nursing-II. Journal of Psychiatric Nursing. doi: 10.5505/phd.2016.46036